History Department

British Studies Program Releases Collection of Autobiographies

Tue, February 28, 2006

"I am grateful to all the individuals who have shared their fascinating personal stories through this volume," said Dr. Roger Louis, director of the British Studies program and past president of the American Historical Association.

"Burnt Orange Britannia" reveals a microcosm of the academic world and includes themes of universal interest such as commitment to teaching and scholarship. Authors include William Cunningham, Robert D. King, Harry Middleton, Thomas F. Staley, Betty Sue Flowers, Richard Lariviere, Paul Woodruff and Toyin Falola. The oldest author, Creekmore Fath, was born in 1916, the youngest, Tracie Matysik, in 1969.

"Each story is unique, with some pursuing a particular topic, teaching for example, and others relating tempestuous careers and scholarly commitment," said Louis, who also holds the honor of having been appointed Commander of the British Empire by the Queen of England.

"Burnt Orange Britannia" is the fifth in a series of publications produced jointly by the university's Harry Ransom Humanities Research Center, the British Studies Program and I.B. Tauris of London. Its publication marks the 30th anniversary of the program, which has held weekly seminars since 1975.